Description:

Every day, people across Illinois are denied the basic rights to which they are entitled under the law simply because they can't afford a lawyer. It's our mission to change that.

A Not-For-Profit Law Firm is seeking a Staff Attorney to join our team in the Waukegan office. This position will primarily focus on legal needs of survivors of domestic violence. PSLS provides comprehensive legal assistance to victims of domestic violence and sexual assault, with a focus on matters that arise as a direct result of the client's victimization. Attorney services include obtaining protective/restraining orders and other relief to ensure our clients' safety and security. Clients may receive legal assistance in a wide range of other legal issues as necessary to address consequences of victimization and obtain long-term safety and stability; this may include housing, employment, consumer, and family law matters.

Responsibilities:
Among other duties as assigned, the Staff Attorney in this project will:

Interview victims of abuse in a manner sensitive to the trauma they may have experienced and attuned to honoring their choices
Assess the needs of victims in terms of their immediate legal needs for protection and other legal issues that are an outgrowth of abuse
Engage with police and prosecutors to advocate for victims
Engage with domestic violence and sexual assault providers to coordinate service delivery and identify/address issues that have an impact on victims
Provide a full range of legal services, including legal research and factual investigation, counsel and advice, brief services and document preparation, dispute resolution, and representation of clients in administrative and judicial proceedings
Develop and maintain networking relationships with local bar associations and with local, state, and federal governments and community agencies that serve our client population
Provide accurate and complete information for grant reporting to grant funders, including documenting services in the case record
Attend training required by the grants
Actively participate in staff committees or task forces focused on services for victims
Exhibit a high level of personal energy, organization, and commitment to the position and the PSLS mission

Qualifications:

Candidates who are currently admitted to the practice of law in the State of Illinois, or admitted in another state and eligible for reciprocity in Illinois are preferred. Consideration will be given to law graduates who will be sitting for the next bar exam.
Experience with trial advocacy, negotiation, and family law preferred.
Commitment to aiding victims of domestic violence, sexual assault, and family abuse
Strong interpersonal skills
Excellent oral/written communication, research skills, and computer competency
Organizational and case management proficiency
Ability to work effectively as a team member
The ideal candidate will have demonstrated experience in effectively communicating with and serving victims.
Candidates with Spanish language proficiency are highly preferred.
Moderate travel may be required; applicant must have a valid driver's license and/or reliable transportation.
We will give preference to candidates who have experience providing services to low-income individuals